This Time Story on scientist's recommendations to relocate portions of the Haitian capitol to better soils is an interesting story and a potential welcomed change in behavior. Typically you cannot get the science fast enough after a disaster to impact the recovery efforts.
Scientists are famously hesitant to take positions on controversial issues until "all the facts are in." All of which can take years or decades to pin down the absolute truth of an issue. Even then they can be reluctant. Just review the debate on climate change and global warming and you will see how that evolution of opinion has changed over the decades.
Yes, we can mitigate hazards by building seismically stronger buildings. However, the best solution is to avoid the hazardous area altogether--if possible. Given the level of destruction in Haiti that might be the best solution. The degree to what the Haitian government can do that is probably problematic. Here in the United States it would be almost impossible. People want to do what they want--and then be bailed out when disaster strikes. It is the American way!
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Scientists are famously hesitant to take positions on controversial issues until "all the facts are in." All of which can take years or decades to pin down the absolute truth of an issue. Even then they can be reluctant. Just review the debate on climate change and global warming and you will see how that evolution of opinion has changed over the decades.
Yes, we can mitigate hazards by building seismically stronger buildings. However, the best solution is to avoid the hazardous area altogether--if possible. Given the level of destruction in Haiti that might be the best solution. The degree to what the Haitian government can do that is probably problematic. Here in the United States it would be almost impossible. People want to do what they want--and then be bailed out when disaster strikes. It is the American way!
